The Russian side has sent a letter to the Armenian authorities, notifying them of the suspension of exports of plant products from several companies. This information was shared by Babken Pipoyan, chairman of the public organization "Informed and Protected Consumer."
"The headlines "Russia Halts Imports from Armenia" are accompanied by the opinions of know-it-alls. Pro-Russian commentators express their enthusiasm, seeing this as a response to anti-Russian policies, while anti-Russian commentators use this to validate their views," Pipoyan noted.
He emphasized that the restrictions apply only to a few companies. In May, the Russian side reported cases of excessive pesticide residue levels and requested information on the measures taken.
The letter also calls for an official investigation and information on steps taken to prevent the shipment of dangerous products to Russia. Pipoyan pointed out that few people cared about the fact that products with high pesticide levels might also be consumed in Armenia.
According to Pipoyan, the government agency is required to provide answers to the following questions:
- Did information about excessive pesticide levels arrive in May?
- What steps were taken?
- Why were the Russian side and Armenian consumers not informed?
- Why were no measures taken after receiving the letter, putting both consumers and businesses at risk?
Pipoyan stressed that the restrictions on only a few companies indicate that the problem should be sought elsewhere.
Earlier BMG reported that Russia remains the leader in trade volumes with Armenia. From January to May this year, trade turnover with Russia grew 2.8 times, amounting to $7.5 billion. However, exports to Russia fell by 21.5%, from last year's $1.4 billion to $1.1 billion for the first four months of this year, while imports from Russia increased fivefold, exceeding $6.4 billion.
During the reporting period, Russia's share in the structure of foreign trade turnover also increased from last year's 36.1% to 45.9%.
